Inside a Mama_It's a Madhouse
“It’s a madhouse,” is an iconic quote from the 1968 film, Planet of the Apes. This quote accurately describes what it is like to be a teacher and mother during the Covid-19 pandemic in my house. I don’t know about you maybe you’re the Mom who has it all together. I thought I did. Homework is laid out on the dining room table, breakfast is prepared and waiting, remote learning apps are loaded and ready to go, however, none of that compares to the abundant energy and excitability of my boys.
Teaching is a noble profession and I have no desire to be a teacher at all, although those that do, I applaud you. It’s incredibly difficult to get kids to engage, focus and complete an assignment. Goal setting has helped us, yet, I still question if my sons are getting it. Or are they only interested in the goal of getting something? I’m struggling with controlling their behavior and I wonder if this is even a realistic pursuit. Am I even capable and qualified to do this?
Homework, laundry, meals, the constant demands, staying up to date on alerts about Covid-19, attempting to keep the house clean (that’s an oxymoron in a house of boys), keeping up with friends, participating in with the online events/parties and work is a never-ending cycle that seems to intensify each day. The noise is deafening. The boy's constant horseplay and roughhousing are distracting, yet, to be expected. I don’t know how people with large families manage this. My phone buzzes all day from text messages from family and friends. I glance at my phone throughout the day, but, I don’t have the time to respond because I’m trying (really and truly) to maneuver homework, break up a fight (Oh my goodness, there are at least two to three a day) and managing chores along with whatever is on my schedule.
It’s a madhouse, for sure, however, we’re safe despite all of the challenges and we have all of our needs met. I try and remind myself that things could be worse. People that I know have died from Covid-19 and my husband is currently working on the front lines. Yes, it’s difficult, but it could be so much worse, yet it’s not.
I don’t know what things will look like when this is over, personally for me, I look forward to someone else stepping back into the role of teacher and allowing us to support. I look forward to dining out at a restaurant with friends, hanging out at the pool in the summer and sharing a meal with those that I haven’t been able to see because of social distancing. Until that time, I’ll struggle through assignments, the juggling of chores and work and try and be grateful even in the midst of chaos. Take a step back and breathe, you’re doing a great job, Mama. Your children are healthy and thriving. Remember you are enough and so am I. May God bless you and keep you during these trying times.
